A review of the literature to inform the development of a practice framework for supporting children with cerebral visual impairment (CVI)

ABSTRACT

Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is now the most common cause of visual impairment affecting children in the developed world. Due to the increased survival rates of preterm infants and other early insult brain conditions, such as cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus and periventricular white matter injury, the numbers of children with CVI will also continue to rise. As such, focus needs to turn to developing effective approaches for supporting the growing number of children with this condition. Currently, many children with CVI are being supported using approaches and strategies that have been developed for children with ocular visual impairments (OVI). This is despite current evidence suggesting that many of these strategies may not be effective for children with CVI and in fact, in some situations, may actually be detrimental for them. This detailed review of relevant medical/scientific, educational and rehabilitation literature outlines a potential practical framework that could be implemented to help support each individual child with CVI. The proposed CVI practice framework has three main components, including: individual CVI profiles that detail the child’s visual, emotional and behavioural needs; individualised habilitation/rehabilitation programmes based on the child’s individual CVI profile; and empowerment of the child with CVI and their family.

KEYWORDS:

• Cerebral visual impairment
• practice framework
• empowerment

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1 This review has informed a larger research study that has focused on developing an effective framework for supporting children with CVI.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Nicola McDowell

Nicola McDowell PhD is a lecturer and researcher in the Institute of Education at Massey University New Zealand. She is the Blind & Low Vision endorsement coordinator on the Post Graduate Specialist Teaching programme. Nicola’s research interests include: supporting learners with disabilities (particularly visual impairments) to have equal access and equal opportunities for success within their educational environment. Also, issues related to empowerment of those with disabilities and their families / caregivers.